Quarterbacks: A
How could I not give senior quarterback Ryan Katz an A? The Oregon State transfer accounted for five touchdowns, three rushing and two passing. Katz was 15-of- 29 passing for 190 yards.
Running backs: C
This is the second consecutive week the tandem of sophomore Adam Muema and senior Walter Kazee did not stand out. The two combined for 101 yards and one touchdown, just weeks after the two each rushed for more than 100 yards in the same game. The grade would have been worse if not for Muema’s amazing touchdown in the fourth quarter. Freshman Chase Price also scored the first touchdown of his career.
Receivers: C-
It was definitely a quiet night for the wide receivers and tight ends, which tends to happen when the quarterback is running into the end zone multiple times. Senior wide receiver Brice Butler had a great 36-yard touchdown catch,when he caught the ball between two Hawai’i defenders.
Offensive line: B
The offensive line gave up four sacks, but consistently opened up some big holes for Katz. Senior Riley Gauld got the start in place of junior offensive lineman Japheth Gordon, who was out with a foot injury. Katz had decent time in the pocket, resulting in an overall good game.
Defensive line: B-
Redshirt defensive lineman Jon Sanchez had a career-high four tackles and one of SDSU’s two sacks. Hawai’i was held to less than 100 yards rushing and junior quarterback Sean Schroeder was never able to get into a rhythm, finishing 14-of-28 passing for 112 yards.
Linebackers: B+
It was a great performance by the linebackers. Sophomore Jake Fely tied for the team-lead with six tackles, while sophomore Derek Largent finished with three tackles and a 14-yard sack that forced a Hawai’i punt. He also recorded the first pass breakup of his career and recovered a fumble.
Secondary: B-
Sophomore defensive back King Holder got his first career start for the injured Josh Wade and played well. He finished with four tackles, one for a loss. Senior Leon McFadden tied Fely for the team lead, with six tackles on night, one for a loss, and forced a fumble. After being burned last week by Fresno State for 536 yards and five touchdowns, the secondary came out and held its own.
Special teams: D+
SDSU head coach Rocky Long said the special teams were “shaky.” I would have to agree. Coverage is still a problem for the Aztecs. Players are having trouble staying in their lanes. There were no kickoff returns for touchdowns, but still some fairly long returns. Freshman Stan Sedberry caused a fumble on a kickoff recovered by the Aztecs, which resulted in Muema’s rushing touchdown.
Coaching: A-
Way to go, Andy Ludwig. The SDSU offensive coordinator called some well-designed runs for Katz, which resulted in three rushing touchdowns. Long also did the defense a favor by simplifying the schemes.
Next opportunity-Colorado State: A
The Rams continue to struggle. After defeating Colorado in the opening game of the season, Colorado State has lost five straight. This is a great opportunity to get above .500 in the overall record and conference standings.
